Ginter is a lifelong Broome County resident who has worked with a number of local nonprofits, including HealthLinkNY, Broome County Arts Council and the United Way of Broome County.

A statement from the zoo said Ginter has experience in grant management, program development, strategic visioning and community engagement.

"We are excited to have Phil bring his expertise to lead the Binghamton Zoo team," said Southern Tier Zoological Society President Mario DiFulvio. "I hope you will join me, our staff and board of directors in welcoming Phil to our zoo."

The zoo is also working toward regaining its accreditation with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The zoo lost its accreditation in 2005 but regained it in 2009, and lost it again in 2014 for failing to meet the association's standards. The accreditation denial cited concerns about deferred maintenance, low employee salaries and financial instability.

Obtaining the AZA accreditation again would allow the zoo to become eligible for funding and grants from certain foundations, corporations and other sources. It would also exempt the zoo from certain government permits and allow the zoo to participate in the animal exchange program with other accredited facilities.

The zoo will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekends only starting March 16. The zoo's grand opening is scheduled for April 20 and 21. That weekend is also the zoo's annual Eggstravaganza, featuring an egg hunt.

Zoo members and visitors will be able to meet Glinter on April 20 and on Members Only Night on April 27.